Benitez 'Understands' Fans' Hostile Greeting

Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez says he understands the hostile reaction of the club's fans, but promises things will change.

Benitez was subjected to angry jeering and gesticulating during Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Manchester City on Sunday, with fans still angry at the manner of the sacking of his predecessor Roberto di Matteo.

"Clearly I understand the feeling of the fans," Benitez said. "I know how they feel at the moment because of my time at Liverpool, we had a rivalry and it was quite difficult.

"At the same time I will try to prove to them that I am here for the right reasons. I will try to prove to them I want to win and, if I can do it, they will be pleased."

Chelsea play Fulham on Wednesday with striker Fernando Torres still searching for his shooting boots, and Benitez admitting the striker is short of the standards he set at Liverpool.

"He's not exactly the same now because he was at maximum level at this time, but I think that he can come back. How close? I don't know.

"It depends also on the rest of the team, but I think he can improve, I am sure that he can improve, but the team has to help him."